The VBC/CBD was founded by the Reverend Shi Hua Dhammaruchi (aka. Rev. William Edwards) in September of 2001 and was established as a non-profit religious organization on October 24, 2001, in the State of Missouri.

Our Mission The mission of the VBC/CBD is to make the original teachings of the Buddha available throughout mid-Missouri. Vipassana Buddhist Church is unique in the central Missouri area in that we are the only Buddhist organization that provides services and ceremonies in many different traditions. Reverend Dhammaruchi was ordained in the Order of Buddhist Ministers in 1997 by his primary teacher Venerable Bhante Chao Chu, and Venerable Havanpola Ratnasara Nayaka Thero, along with other monks of the of the Buddhist Sangha Council of Southern California.

Vipassana Buddhist Church in Jefferson City

Because his primary teacher is from the Theravada school, VBC-Jefferson City is centered in that school; however, all Buddhist teachings are accepted and often incorporated into our practice.

The Center for Buddhist Development has as its focus, providing opportunities for individuals to learn more about Buddhism through a lending library, involvement in our local community, hosting lectures, movies, cultural events and other educational opportunities. We strive to cultivate a community of compassion in the greater Jefferson City area and Mid-Missouri and to assist in bringing diverse Buddhist viewpoints to the Heartland of America.